2009 in Review

2009 was another GREAT year. Starting off with a trip to Cabo San Lucus Thanks to Anita’s brother Steve. We spent a week there at one of his super time shares. Then in May the Long awaited event came off without a hitch. Our niece Brooke (Bills oldest) got married in Boise. Then came summer here on Lake Sammamish. It was a hotter than normal summer, filled with water activity. “I sure hope I never outgrow playing in and on the water” But I do find my mornings filled with having coffee on the deck watching the sunrise ,wildlife and the first skiers to hit the lake. I use to be that guy, but hey I can wait for everyone to get their first run in and head off to work then when the air temp warms up a little and the lake gets calm once again it’s my turn.
As usual we made numerous trips to Spokane to visit Anita’s sister Mary. Anita catches up on the ongoing Frey activities while I do honey do’s for Mary.
  In Sept we did a road trip to Glacier National Park. Returning thru Canada. It was great. Lots of little hikes and fantastic scenery.
  Nov was the month of the long awaited kitchen remodel. It went off with nary a hitch and we are very happy with the results.
  My birthday and our 40th anniversary were spent in Spokane. Thanksgiving at Brother Bills. The whole DeLeo family showed other than sister Jane. For Christmas we did our annual Portland trek.
All in all it was another great year spent with friends and family. Everyone in the family from Anita’s 94year old mother to under a year Piper DaGata  (Patty Zimmer’s new baby) are healthy and happy.
Looking Forward to the Adventures of 2010!

Christmas 2009

Christmas 2009. Another GREAT Zimmer Christmas. Had a good drive to PDX. Not much traffic, A little foggy but that did not disrupt the trip at all. Thur Night: (Christmas Eve) The whole Dresser family showed up for hot soup and good cheer.
Christmas morning everyone was slow to rise. After everyone attending church we enjoyed brunch followed by time to open gifts. Now everyone has settled in. The normal Zimmer game time, Tommy computer time and grandma and Boomer watching TV.

Spokane December Visit

Day I: (Thur) Headed out to GEG early this morning. Killing two birds with one stone. While enjoying a long overdue visit to the inland empire and Christmas season Frey style we are having our hardwood floors re finished and we are required to be out of the house for 24hrs after the finish goes down. Had a interesting drive over. As we rounded the last bend before the pass everything basically disappeared we were in the clouds or fog or whatever. During the rest of the journey we were in and out of low visibility situations with a few signs of ice on the leading edge of the aerial. Not much snow along the way and some traces of snow at Chez Frey.

Day II: Spent today doing honey do’s for Mary. Now everything is up and running until our next visit. Which will be in 2010. Oh yes almost forgot we met for breakfast with Fran and Barbara Burkhart.
Twas a good day, Still NO snow:(

Day III: Big wheels heading west. Headed out around 11:00. After an uneventful foggy ride home we arrived home around 3pm to our freshly re surfaced smelly hardwood floors.

Kitchen Remodle Week III

Day VIII: (Monday) Granite Day :) Things are on track now. Leif spent the day installing cabinet doors and drawer fronts. The boys from Fine Line arrived with the counter tops.  4hrs later we now have beautiful counter tops. Tomorrow the tile guy is coming to do the back splashes. We should finished on schedule, FINISHED this Friday

Day IX: BAD day!! Lot’s of little and not so little details to be taken care of. Thought I would go nuts for a few moments. Anyway we made it thru the day and hoping the resolves we came up with will do the trick. We will see tomorrow.

Day X: GOOD day the details were resolved to our satisfaction. Today the tile was all set and ready for grouting and calking. Dishwasher and disposal installed along with the faucet and most of the door and drawer pulls. Tomorrow the refrigerator , Stove and new doors are scheduled for instlation. Sounds like a big day!!!!

Day XI: Big day Things really started cooking today. In fact we can cook on the new gas range, put stuff down the disposal and keep something cold in the refrigerator. Even though none of the above have been done. They are ready! Waiting for a hose for the dish washer.  The tile is done! Tomorrow (Fri) there will be a couple small trim projects, The pantry door and install our new deadbolt. One of the larger mistakes by Kitchen Plus. Was the put a hole for a dead bolt in the kitchen door. So I took advantage of the mistake to negotiate and share the price of a deadbolt with a key pad.

Day XII: The Final Day! Leif arrived this morning and started putting the finishing touches on the kitchen. It was a full day,But he got her done!! Tomorrow morning the cleaning crew is coming in and then we can start stocking the new cupboards ect. Also next week Leif will be bringing in a couple of door facings that need some mods.

Old	NEW!!

Happy Thanksgiving Bill’s

Picked up Jason and Brook around 1:00 from SEATAC and worked our way to Key Center for a Thanksgiving day feast at Bill and Robins. Not only did Brook and Jason fly up from Los Angles. John came home from school at Washington State in Pullman. So ALL of us were togeather except for Jane and Larry who stayed in Selah. So it was Bill, Robin, Brooke, Jason, Adam, John and Tom and Anita. The bird was a winner. In fact other than eating just too much food it was a resounding success. Thanks Billy and Robin. There was even a little time for Billy and Adam to bond as seen in the picture

Kitchen Remodel Week II

Day I: (Monday) Today we got the cabinets above the stove installed, A bunch of skinning and moved and skinned the bar. It was a productive day. I am thinking things are on schedule. Also got a call from Crossroads Appliance and they got our missing refrigerator in. It will be delivered on Wed.

Day II: The Fine Line People showed as promised. We did have one problem NO POWER! Puget power was working on the main lines on the parkway. So we had no volts. The granite guy needed power for his hot glue gun to make the counter templates. He tried using a torch on the glue, but that got a little scary and we definitely did not to see the Big Red Truck coming down our drive. So rather than re-scheduling I grabbed the neighbors generator so we could power the pesky glue gun. It Worked! Thanks to Dave and Pati Page and their trusty generator. The Granite is scheduled for install on Monday. Yeah!!  

Day III: Today was a good day. Received the new refer this morning. Leif  got all the lower cabinets ready for Monday’s granite install. Also a couple more doors were installed. Look's like there is a little catching up in order as Leif is now planning on putting in a couple hrs. on Friday.

Day IV: (Thur.) Thanksgiving

Day V: Thanksgiving Holiday

Kitchen Remodle Week I

DAY I: Monday Leif our worker guy arrived around 0900. We spent the morning going over the details and he made some preparation for the teardown. Also our appliances minus the refrigerator arrived. Now we have officially moved out of the old kitchen for the duration. We have our necessities (coffee maker and microwave) set up in the cove room off the living room.  Life is good and we are anxious for this adventure to start showing some progress.

DAY II: Destruction Leif(the guy) arrived around 0730 and started gutting the old kitchen. The process went fast. The fun part was the discovery of lost treasures. Like price tags on the old cabinets The one I found was $22 for a cabinet base. The best one found on my wiring job was while changing outlets and switches I found one I put in when we remolded in 78 which was a outlet with a 3 for $1 Pay & Pack price tag. The ones I am putting in now are about $3 apiece and not as good. INFLATION! The destruction was complete around noon. Now we are waiting for the new cabinets to arrive tomorrow morning

DAY III: Waiting for the cabinets. Waiting,Waiting , WAITING! I hope this is not a sign of things to come. First the truck with the cabinets were scheduled to arrive around 0730 then 11:00 Now tomorrow morning. Waiting Waiting

DAY IV: Let the Progress begin. The truck with the cabinets and supplies just arrived. Good progress today. We now have the gas plumbing to the kitchen ,The sink plumbing is also ready for the new sink and dishwasher, And a few of the new cabinets are in. A couple of discrepancies in two of the cabinets but there should be no problem in working them out. Twas a good day.

DAY V: Friday Things should get a crackin around here soon. I believe today. will be spent putting in a few more cabinets and the pantry door.
The pantry door will wait to be installed so it does not get marked up hauling out the old and bringing in the new. All the drawers were installed today and some under counter skinning and more cabinet prep. This will all have to be finished up before next Tue when the granite guys come in to measure.
Starting Monday on Week TWO will be in a post above this one

Kitchen Remodel

Our Kitchen remodel is on track. After living with the same kitchen for over 30 years. Anita convinced me we should bite the bullet and redo the kitchen. We have been planning and checking out our options for a couple months now. The adventure is about to start. The people from Kitchen Plus are scheduled to arrive Monday Nov 16th. The new appliances should arrive the same day. Anita and I have been running around gathering electrical supplies as we are doing a little bit of rewiring (outlets, switches, and some lighting). It’s  going ok other than trying to figure out exactly how I wired the house 30 years ago. When I had to add new wiring to the existing original wiring. (No shocks or fires yet)
  I plan to follow this adventure through the process on this blog. Complete with pictures. More to come. Probably starting Nov 16th. 
ENJOY the Mess.

It’s now the eve of distruction. We are READY to rock

Happy Birthday Jane

Happy Birthday Lil Sis!! 
Love tommy and Anita

Spokane Oct.

Day I: Early start to GEG. Arrived around noon and headed up to Diamond Lake cabin to do the final season shutdown. Last min pickup and turning off the water and draining the pipes. DONE!

Day II: Doing my tommy to do list. Anita and Mary are off for Mary’s cataract surgery. Surgery went well.

Day III: (Fri.) This morning Anita will be taking Mary back to the doctor to have her patch removed. And I will be doing the Isabel school shuttle and finishing up some chores around here.

Day IV: Starting out the morning as a Starbucks rat. Headed out just before 6 this morning for some putering and nasty strong coffee at Starbucks. Good coffee and I don't have to disturbe any of the 4 sleeping beauties at chez Fre. I am thinking the Rav-4 wheels will be spinning west sometime this morning. Somehow I would like to figure out how to catch the USC Notre Dame game today. My fav team vs the team I love to hate. "the one with divine luck" Who knows maybe a Selah stop is in order. After a munchie and hello stop at Sowder Farms (Selah) We continued out trek west arriving home around 5pm..

Glacier Adventure Begins

Glacier Adventure Begins The pictures in the slide show will grow as pictures are added. Click HERE to follow on map. Also If you click on the lower right corner of the slide show you can check out or download any of the pictures.

 

Day 1: Sunday September 6th Getting off to a late start. After a brief stop at Costco for a Spokane we proceeded to have a uneventfull good drive to Mary’s. Celebrated Karen’s 48th birthday.

Day 2:MondayToday was tommy to do day at Mary's. Headed up to Daimond lake for our nights rest at Mary's cabin and a last good bye to Sue and Judy. Mary’s naibhrors at the lake before they headed back to Maui for the winter. Went into Newport for dinner only to find out that most places were closed due to it being Labor Day. We did manage to score on some Mexican food. It was either that or McD's. PS. Summer at the lake must be over. Not a sign of any WIFI to leach off :(

Day 3:Tuesday Breaking base camp. woke up to some pretty major fog on the lake. There goes my morning photo shoot. Today we head out towards Glacier.
It’s now evening and we made it as far as Whitefish and are now bedded down for the evening. Had a GREAT drive. The weather has been perfect. And I once again have connectivity (WIFI) We did dinner at the Tue. Whitefish farmers market. Then drove up to Big Mountain  to check out sunset. We were totally amazed with a housing development near the top of the mountain. The views were spectacular and the houses matched. Mostly multi million dollar log and rock homes. Tommorow we are planning on heading into Glacier park. Looks like it’s going to be another great day:)

Day 4:Wednesday Into the Park. Made it into the park this morning and was happy to see that my old Natiional golden age pass works. (My favorite “FREE”) After checking out the visitors center it was on and upto Logan Pass around 6000ft, One beautiful drive. At the pass it was time to head out on our first hike to hidden lake about 2mi in. Some Pretty spectacular scenery. We passed a small group of mountin goats along the trail. They really did not pay any attention to us or the other ten or so gawkers checking them out. Shot lots of pictures, but won’t be able to post them til I get a better internet connection. We made it to the east side of the park and found our diggs, Then it was out to find some munchies. Found a place at Duck Lake. Very quaint but the burgers were great. All in all it was a very good worthwhile day.

Day 5:It’s Thursday morning and I am sitting by a big log fire at the East Glacier Lodge. Computer on my lap and hot coffee in hand. It’s 6am mounting time and still no sign of sunrise, but what the heck. This morning we are planning on heading to Many Glaciers. About 20mi north of here for some more hiking adventures. Then probably up into Canada to the Canadian portion of the park. Waterton. Even though it’s still dark out I stepped outside and the skies looked clear. Time to go fill my cup. Made it to Waterton around 10am after waiting for the boarder to open. Scored on a great place on the lake to spend the night then it was off to stretch the legs on a couple more hikes. We just missed a bear spotting on the trail. As some people walking 3 or 4 min behind us spotted one walking across the trail. Maybe next time. We did see a mom and cub running across the road the night before. Tomorrow we are planning on heading out early for Banff about 4 hrs north of here. Spend the night there and then our path is still up in the air. So far the weather has been nothing but perfect. And we have been sharing the pilot navigator duties. My only frustration is trying to stay connected to the outside world on our stops. Our cell phone has had no bars since we left Whitefish. No big deal but it would be fun to blog and check out stuff on the road. When I have made Internet contact I bandwidth is so slow I get a little frustrated. In fact I am typing this in the middle of the nigh and having a little problems using google maps due to the low bandwidth. The GREAT news is we are having a GREAT time. And are in no hurry to head west other than to enjoy that part of the journey. Still don’t know our route. I had better catch some Zzzzs

Day 6: Friday On to Banff “OOP’s” After heading out of the park we came to the conclusion that a 5hr drive north would not be that bad but then realised that another 13hrs of driving home from Banff would pushing it a little. So we decided to head west across Canada. The trip was filled with great views. WE headed up Kootenay lake to catch the free 1/2hr ferry ride across the lake. Very cool. Then on the other side of the lake we headed south ending up in Castlegar for the night. Which was fast approaching. After a Loooong shower we settled in for the night after 370mi of driving. Oh yes that’s tommy standing along side One BIG Dump Truck. “No Photoshop trickery” Ir was a real big truck!!

Day 7: Saturday It’s now morning in Castelgar and we are getting started. Now comes decisions decisions decisions “What route should we take, and where too” Maybe after a couple cups of coffee and breakfast the decision will be made. Probably we will stay somewhere in eastern Wash. Oh I hear the coffee pot burbling.
The morning had one hitch. I lost the GPS. Sort of ironic. After totally searching the hotel room and tracing my steps to the car. We finally gave up. It was gone. Then I took one last look thru my mini computer bag and even though it was not in sight I felt it in one of the hidden compartments. NOW we were on our way. It is funny how you start relying on that little gps. Especially after discovering our map libary was a mess as it was comprised of a selection of maps from both sides of the border. Unfortunately all in a differnt scale so that made it hard to follow. Next time I definitely will spend more time preparing maps which is hard when you really don't have any spafic destinations. Now underway we headed west along the canadian border trying to decide which crossing we shoud go for. We sort of had decided on Osoyoos and head down into the Republic area on the US side. Then we spotted a sign that said Spokane. Knowing that Daimond lake was between that sign and Spokane We stopped and gave mary a call who was at the lake. She said "Come on down" Hey 3hrs to a familiar place on some road we had never traveled. We did a quick turn around and headed south. Sure was nice to be back in familiar place where distances were in miles and gas was sold by the gallon. Arrived at the cabin around 1:15 to a beautiful sunny day on the lake. It was great to be able to sit back and just relax. Mary and Isabel headed into town around 5 we just veged out and enjoyed the evening.

Day 8:Sunday It's now morning and I am watching the sunrise over daimond lake sitting in my favorit recliner whith a hot cup of coffee and listening to the tick of the clock. Life is GOOD! It was a good idea heading back to the lake as I am feeling rested after a great nights sleep in a familiar place and 1300 mi of driving and memories of great sights and experiences behind us. As for today the plan "At this moment" is to head into Spokane with a load of stuff from the cabin as it is in the final processes of closing it down for the winter. There is no hurry. Anita is still sacked out and I am feeling rested as well as excited about our drive west wether it be up thru the north cascades or the same old route following I90 home. Either way I am up for it. Did a semi cabin shutdown and headed to Spokane. Where I am now posting. Next Stop????
Turns out I-90 Mary’s to home was the choice. I guess the homing pidgin instinct took over. When all was said and don we put 1,661 miles on the Rav4 with only one maintaince stop “a car-wash” and the usal windshield bug clean at each fill up.

Day 9:Monday September 14th Back Home. Great Adventure! Today will be filled with unpacking, car washing, and just general catching up. Or maybe not

Glacier 2009

NOTES

Sep Road trip to Glacier National Park
Click HERE for Active Map
My Maps

 

Portland for Liz’s B-day

Day:1 We are now on the road to PDX (Portland) I am connected via my cell phone and enjoying the wonders of technology. Just got off of a conference IM with Bill in Maine and Jane in Yakima. Anita is driving  and I am living large. Jane you can click HERE to see Bills Maine pictures.

Day:II Fri Sitting in Starbucks. Checking out yet another Portland Starbucks. We had a great evening last night (Liz’s actual birthday) dinner with Liz, Steve, Grandma, Anita and I. Today I will be doing a Fry’s run this morning to score on some goodies for my newest computer build. Then this evening we will be going out to Liz’s friends for her birthday dinner.

Day:III sat Heading home day. Had a good evening with a bunch of Liz and Steve’s friends. Their friends the Grubbs had us over for a BBQ and lot’s of talk about fine wine and golf. That sort of left this geek without much to contribute. The Grubbs house was a remodel showcase. Very nice. Steve is now out playing golf and Anita and Liz are still sacked out. I am fairly confident that Rav wheels will be turning north as soon as Anita get,s up. It is still overcast but much brighter than yesterday.

Lake Living

Another perfect morning. It is suppose to be the start of a hot spell. So I am taking advantage of my favorite time of day. The sun has yet to clear the horizon but the temp is just right, I am sitting here on the deck doing my morning computer reading. In this case watching a techie podcast. I know the picture is small but if you look carefully you can see a pre dawn skier just above my toe. and as always I have my trusty Parker Store coffee cup full of hot coffee. So far I have seen blue herons doing their morning fly by, also a flock of Canadian honkers going by, A couple of eagles. One of which is now hanging about 60 feet away in the top of the tree. There is no wind so I don’t have to worry about being whitewashed by mr eagle. I really don’t have much to say other than the only thing that would make this any better would be having someone to share this experience with. Most people just are not willing to haul themselves out of the sack. Which I have always found so hard to fathom as fore me this is my favorite time of the day.
GOOD MORNING !!
PS. Finishing this post up Just in time. The sun has cleared the the hills to the east and my screen is disappearing before my eyes.

Playing with Photos

I was introduced to some new cool tricks in photography the other day by a neighbor. The ones in the above slide show are my first attempt messing with HDR (High Dynamic Range)pIt is a process where you take three shots one underexposed one overexposed and one properly exposed. Then these three shots (layers) are merged together enabling you to see detail in the shadows and the highlights. From there you can start using artistic license. The fun part

Steph turns 28

Went to Steph's for dinner with Liz, Laura, and Mike

Had a BBQ and a few laughs.
Happy Birthday Steph

Spokane July 4th 2009

Day I: Thur It’s morning, I was waken by a couple of noisy eagles outside my window and I am ready to roll as not to be driving across eastern Wa. in the heat of the day. We got on the road around 0830 The drive was nice, A little heaver traffic than usual but all in all a good drive. Made it to GEG around 130pm. Anita and I did a little shopping for the lake tomorrow. I have a few more chores to do for Mary and I think I will pack it in early this evening. This evening we had a special supprise. There were two fawns (baby deer) in Mary’s yard having some problem trying to figure out how to get back on the other side of the fence where their mother was sort of freeked trying to figure out the same thing. My pictures were pretty poor due to the light conditions. Anyway it was very cool

 

Day II: Fri Driving up to the lake. It’s now Fri morning and I am doing my Starbucks rat thing. I headed out of Mary’s around 0500 as not to disturb the sleeping beauties. As of now the plan is to meet up with Fran and Barb Burkhard around 1030 and head north to Diamond Lake.
Made it to the lake for a great afternoon and evening. Now 930pm and the lake is starting to light up with pre 4th fireworks, Full moon no wind and just the chirps of little people around the lake filled with excitement of fireworks and the 4th of july. It does not get much better than this. I just spotted my first killer mosquito so I had better post up and get off the dock. Nite nite tommy

Day III: Sat The 4th. GOOD MORNING!! It’s the 4th and I got started @ 4 this morning. I am on the dock awaiting sunrise. It has been just beautiful and peacefull this morning well at least until now as there is a groupe of crows disturbing the morning silence. Looks  like a killer day for the holiday as there is not a sign of a cloud in the morning sky. I am sure the day will get long with the pending heat (94) and the cahos of lake activity but the rest of the world has to have their time. I think that’s why the early morning seems so precious to me.  “It’s ALL mine and I only have to share it with Mother Nature’s Beauty and Harmony” Oops a kayaker just paddled by the dock. What is this person doing in my space?? Oh well my first cup of coffee is somewear between cold and empty so its back up to the cabin for this happy camper.
  People started arriving around 1030 to enjoy the lakes activities. The annual boat parade followed by a BBQ. (Beckey,Lisa,Mary,Isabel)(,Lindsey,Ashley,Caden), (Larry,Karen,Trejan)
Anita Mary and Tommy headed out just before the fireworks. We had a good dose of the show the night before.

Day IV: Sun After a good nights sleep We boarded the westbound Rav 4 around0710 and had a good drive home. Thanks Mary for the weekend !

Adams 24th

A great gathering for Adams 24th birthday. We had a lunch. Virginia Lacy's great Halibut. Barbara and her mother attende but Everett missed it as he was on his way to SYD. Had Great weather Great food and Great Friends.

Next Adventure 4th of July 2009 in Spokane (GEG)

At this time we are planning on spending the 4th at Mary’s Cabin on Diamond Lake

Virginia Lacy Celebrates another Birthday

Went to Mike and Vicki's to help celebrate Virginias (__) Birthday

You can click on the above slide show and view or download the above pictures

We Picked up Robin and headed to Shelton to celebrate. As ALWAYS it was a killer party put on by Mike and Vicki. The day was perfect and what more can I say but
HAPPY BIRTHDAY Virginia Your the BEST!!!!!!!!!!

Spokane (time to open the lake cabin)

Once again headed of to Spokane. Our mission this trip is to head up to Diamond lake and open up the cabin for the summer.

Here is an ongoing slideshow of this adventure. Stay Tuned

Day I: Headed out. It’s 5am or so and I am relaxing on the deck enjoying the birds flitting around and the ocasional fish going after a bug or something. It sure does not get much better than this. It’s 65degrees and no wind. Shortly I will be driven off the deck as the sun breaks the horizon and I will no longer be able to view my laptop screen. Until then this is the best! This almost makes me think we are heading east this morning. But I am sure it is going to be uncomfortably hot and the lake will loose it’s peacefulness as the day wares on.
Had a great ride over. We could not believe the level of lake Kachees and how high and swift the Yakima river was flowing along the way.

Day II:
Opening the cabin. It’s now 8:30 and we are driving up to the lake. I am reporting live from the back seat of the car with my computer connected to the internet via the cell phone. Life is so good now.

Back from the Lake. They now have hot and cold running water. That climbing under the cabin is not my idea of a walk in the park. So far on my Mary list I have

Hooked up the new TV boxes.
Taken off the glass screen to the fireplace.
Turned on the water at the lake cabin.
To DO:
   Install a curtain rod in her bedroom
   Take down the entry way chandelear
   Transplant a Rodie
The weather is perfect around 85 the Lake was a little chilly still but managed to go for a junk chillin wade

Day III:
Mission Accomplished!!
All the chores have been completed with minimal distress. The day was topped off by a visit from Karen and Trejaen. and some playing in the yard

Day IV:
Looks like today we will be headed west. As it stands now we will pay a visit to Sowder Farms B&B. Again it is once again a killer day! Sun is out and all is quiet here at Chez Frey. More to come
Made it to Sowder Farms in time for a GREAT burger BBQ by chef Larry and some of Jane’s outrageous tater salad.

Day V: It’s Sunday morning and Jane and I are messing with our computers. Everyone else is stiill sacked out including the dogs. Rosy did get up to join me for my first cup of the day and a stroll in the pasture.
  We should be headed home this morning. Had a  great leisurely drive home thru the canyon then took a side trip to Roslyn (location for Northern Exposure ) along with a couple other stops. Another great adventure and looking forward to the next!!

Embeded Slide show

This is an embedded sideshow from Picasa Web Albums. The show is about Baby Ducks and Geese this year 2009
To See how to do this CLICK HERE

Brook and Jason’s Wedding Adventure

Click Here for Brooke and Jason the early years

Day I: Getting There. (Thur)

It’s now around 0500. We are pretty much packed. Planning on getting out of here about 0800. Then meeting Barbara and Everett at the Summit Lodge for breakfast. Then the journey begins. Only 454 mi – about 6 hours 57 mins to go.
After a good breakfast we were once again on our way to BOI nice sunny drive all the way. Arrived at the Grove hotel around 7pm mst (one hr time change) Went out for pizza and laughs, See ya all in the morning.

Day II: Hanging in Boise

Good Morning, Today Friday started out with a trip to Starbucks with Everett. After one BIG cup of coffee Billy and then Anita joined us for a great breakfast at Goldies. Afterwards Anita and I went over to Jason’s to drop off some gifts and meet Cesar the wonder dog (he makes you wonder is this really a dog or what) Sure makes you see why Brooke and Jason fell in love with this dog. Around 5 people started showing up in the bar at the hotel for a little gathering. And then off to a restaurant for the rehearsal dinner put on by Jason’s parents.

Day III: The Big Day (the wedding)

It’s now 0430 and I am wondering if I am the only fool in this group of wedding travelers awake. Sure is a bummer trying to be quiet as not to wake Anita. Sort of reminds me of my old working days getting up in odd places at odd times and waiting for the day to begin for the rest of humanity. I do totally enjoy the quiet time and should appreciate it as a time to gather my thoughts. Actually it is a wonderful time to reflect back on the life of Brooke starting with our first meeting in the hospital. Now thinking of the Pride Joy and Love this little lady has brought us thru these years and the hopes for all of our futures. I totally can not imagine what is racing thru Robin and Bill’s mind. Probably the only thing that keeps them grounded is the chaos of pulling off this event. The emotions must be way out there. Where did the time go? And being filled with excitement of passing the torch on to their little girl with wonderful thoughts of what the great ride of life has for their little girl. Let the adventure begin! “Where has the time gone?”

Day IV: We are outta here

Got up got rolling and had a great drive home. We did try to take a senic rout but were truned back at Sumpter Oregon as we were told the pass was closed. Made it home around 6pm

Pond Progress 2009

The ongoing development of Adam’s Pond.

Picture taken 05/09/2009

Spokane Anniversary Visit

Day I: We are in Spokane for a visit. Jim and Karen Z. are coming to Spokane and suggested we also come over and we could celebrate our 40th Anniversary. Yet again another great drive with everything including snow. We arrived around 1:30. This afternoon I took a hike across the street to search for rocks for Adams waterfall. I found great rocks that I can even drive the car up to and be off the road. So hopefully I snag a few good rocks for the candy man (Adam).

Day II: Headed out for coffee and the net at Starbucks this morning. Where I sit at the moment enjoying a BIG Hot cup of coffee. Being I got up at my normal time I thought I had better get out of the house as not to disturb the rest of people that get up at more normal times. I certainly do not want to hear about how I woke everyone up sipping my coffee. Rob came over for a visit, Then later Jim and Karen showed up for a visit.
Other than running out of gas due to a poor nights sleep it was a good Day:)

DayIII: Ahh a good nights sleep. I think I will go out and see if I can get Mary’s car started.
  No luck with the car. It’s time to call the car doctor to replace the starter.
Had a fine celebration and dinner at Mary’s.
Day IV: Went to the Davenport hotel for brunch with the gang. The set out for SEA around 2pm. Great ride home and GREAT weekend. Thanks to Mary, Jim and Karen.

First Baby Ducks 2009

April 21st Anita had the first annual baby duck sighting!

She counted 13. I was very surprised as I expected that the first babies would show late due to the nasty weather we have been experiencing for what seems like to be forever this year. Actually the babies normally show on the 20th to the 22nd of April every year just like clockwork. I make it a ritual of keeping my eye on the water at this time every year and other than one or two years in the last 10 or 15 years. They always show.
   Sounds funny but it’s a big deal too me and the ducks I am sure. This year has been especially active with the loons and mergansers. The annual group of Canada geese have been doing their thing around here for about the last week so hopefully we will spot goslings soon followed by merganser babies..
Love the spring. To me it is the real start to a new year..

Alien Attack

Very cool cloud formations around Mt. Rainer. The views from our little piece of paradise never cease to amaze me.

Happy Birthday Anita

April 10th 2009. HAPPY BIRTHDAY Anita!!!

Love Tommy

Visit to Grandma’s House PDX

Day 1: Headed down to Portland Wed morning(04/08) Had a good drive stopping in Centralia for some great Mexican food at La Tarasca and a cup of Starbucks coffee for the other half of the journey. Headed straight to grandma’s then off to Penny’s and Safeway. After that we headed to our digs at Steve and Liz’s (they are off to Maui) so we are hanging here alone. Took a drive down the Willamette looking for dinner and ended

up back in Lake Oswego.

Day 2: I did the Fry’s visit this morning and now Anita is back off to grandma’s to spend the afternoon with her. Not sure at this time if we will be headed home this afternoon or in the morning.
Made it Home around 9pm

  

Spokane Late March

March 26th. Headed off to Spokane for a short visit with Mary. Driving thru the pass this morning was quite spectacular. Here it is almost April and the pass got a major snow dump yesterday. This morning the sun was out the roads were bare and dry and there was major fresh snow on the mountains. It sure does not get much better for traveling thru the pass. In fact the entire drive was beautiful. Sure seems funny to me as I enjoy this drive no matter what the conditions. There are always subtle changes. The funny part is that years ago 1965 to be exact. I use to hate the drive and hope and pray for any excuse not to make the looooong boring drive.
Arrived at Marys around 1pm. Installed her new 24in monitor and set up a wireless router for myself. Which I am using at the moment.
I can smell the steaks on the BBQ so I had better get ready for some munchies.
DAY II. Not much happening today. Just hung around the house. And watched the road to the final four. Gonzaga (Spokane’s sports team) got trounced by North Carolina. A sad evening here in GEG.

DAY III. Like the snow in GEG. We are outta here. Just lazed around in the morning. And got off to a 1:30 or so departure. The ride home was interesting especially shortly after leaving Ellensburg (after a quick bite to eat at Taco Del Mar) we hit snow. By the time we crossed the pass it was coming down like it was winter. The roads remained clear other than a little slush from just east of the pas til we hit the flat lands around North Bend. (The picture. The last of the snow across the street from Mary’s)

All in all it was yet another good trip to GEG.

 

Spring is here

   Spot is now back every morning looking for a little lovin. Although he has been hanging around for a long time. Spot who got his name from the spot on the top of his head has been hanging around our bird house now for the third year. Every morning come rain or shine he can be seen and heard outside the window either trying to keep the lookie lues out or fill it with this years new bunch of wee chirpers. Normally this household is filled three times a year. Sure is great to see the familiar face (spot) returning every year. 

The Party Continues

The forth has come and gone. Anita and I met out friend Susan for lunch. I received many phone calls wishing me a Happy Birthday.Now I know who my real friends are And the evening was topped off with a wonderful dinner at Jim and Bet Schuler's The only disappointment for the day was not getting out on the lake for my annual birthday ski ride. I guess I just rationalized too much. First it was Too damn cold and by the time the air warmed to my over 50 degree air temp rule it was windy. I WILL get out soon and it's really about being able to say "Yes I still love to play on the water. And plan to do so until I can't." Hopefully years away! Thank you All for helping make this yet another memorable birthday.

2 days and counting

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Surprise Birthday at Bill and Robin’s for tommy boy. What can I say I was surprised !! I thought I was the only one that had a clue that full social security was just 2days away. THANKs All for remembering

Off to GEG (spokane) feb 2009

Click HERE for Pics

We are packing up for our departure tomorrow morning to visit Mary.
Day I: Got off to an early start this morning Wed the 18th. Good drive over. A little foggy from about Rye Grass to almost Spokane. Lots of leftover snow in the Spokane area. Especially in Mary's neighborhood. I am trying to get Mary's network. The wireless router may be toast.
Day II: Once again I find myself being a Starbucks rat. I had to come down to the local Starbucks at the bottom of Five Mile (about a quarter of a mile, the way the crow fly's) from Mary's. Anyway there seems to be a lot of morning activity here and great WIFI I guess I should head back up the hill and start the day with Anita and Mary. Mary has a big Picassa project in store for me today, For Isabel.And possibly try to figure out the router delema so I can do my geek stuff from my own computer. I saw a notable pile of snow on my to Starbucks. Got home just intime to see Isabel off to school for the day

. I think I have come to the conclusion that the router is TOAST! Now it's time to concentrate on Mary's project.

Day III: Back at Starbucks for that morning coffee before anyone is up at Chez Frey. I think today will be filled with more of Mary's photo project. Mary seems to be getting the hang of Picassa and the process. This really makes me happy as when she gets a feel for it the possibilities are endless.
This AM Starbucks experience is amazing. The traffic thru here shows me why coffee is such a big business.
Picked up a new router at Costco and now life is once again good. Fran and Barb Burkart joined us for dinner. The evening was full of good food, good friends, and great laughs.

Day IV: Starting early. Now no need to head to Starbucks with my new router spewing out wifi all over the house. There is talk of checking out the cabin at Diamond lake today.  We made it to the lake. Lots of left over snow. The trip was well worth it. Tommy even made a snow angle out on the lake and one fine snow angle she was. All in all it was another great day. I am thinking tommorow we will be fireing up the Rav4 and point it west. By the way Billy, If you are reading this we did score on your BBQ sauce.

Day V: Heading west, Out of Spokane around 10:00. After a good drive home with a couple of coffee and P stops we were home around 3:00pm.
GOOD Adventure.
tommy the angle maker.

Cabo Adventure 2008

Click HERE for more Pictures

Day I: The adventure begins. After one of those long forgotten late night wake ups for most 0300. Our Driver (Ann Denhart) picked us up to begin our travels. As surprisingly normal we started running into familiar faces upon arriving at SEATAC.While standing in the security line I glanced over to the next line and spotted what looked like a tail logo on a Alaska airlines plane and lo and behold it was Nanook on his way to MAS, Then after clearing the TSA (thousands standing around) we ran into our old friend Patti Peluso who would be working our trip to SFO. Now it's almost 0700 the sun is strating to rise out my window and we are winging our way to SFO. Life Is Good!  Hanging in SFO for our flt to Cabo.

We made it on! Now on our way to Mexico. Yet another half full airplane. Great having mucho space again a empty seat between us.

Made It!! Now waiting at Avis for the rest of the Cabo explorers to arrive from PDX They should show any min now. So far this is starting out as a wonderfull adventure
Made it our digs and all I can say is WOW! So this is how the other half lives. Only hitch so far is we left one bag at the car rental place. It was ours and only contains some swimming suits and foot ware. Hell it would not have fit in the rental car anyway and we have to go back out Tue to pick up one other person. Now we will have fresh clothes. Can't beat that. Steve and Ron BBQ'd up some fresh ahi for dinner followed by some great laughs.

1: Arrival	2: Our Digs
3: Exploring	3: Sunset Day 1

Day: II. After everyone hitting the sack (very early for some) I did my usual early getup and now totally enjoying the morning peace and quiet while waiting for sunrise, Which always excites me and makes my day. The internet on my lap, coffee in one hand and a mouse in the other. What more could a boy want?
Sort of lazy this morning. Spotted lots of whales this morning from the front of the house.

Day III: Slept in til almost 6:30 But in time for sunrise. This morning I was NOT the ONLY one to see the sunrise even though I hit the sack early as usual.  After another great sunrise everyone started preparing for the day. Anita doing her morning swim, Steve a little Custom Decorators business on the computer, Patty calling her hubby (who should arrive today) on the phone, Liz ?????, and myself morning reading, blogging, messing with my latest shots, and yes, Lot's of coffee. The maid is preparing breakfast in the kitchen so my mind if filled with anticipation of another great Mexican breakfast.  Took some walks around the grounds and their nature  trails. Then off to San Jose for some shopping and dropping Liz and Steve off at the golf course on the way. After trekking thru the little town it was off to what has been the highpoint of my trip so far. Snorkeling at one of the public beaches. The water was quite warm other than dipping your tows in for a little test. There were lot's of brightly colored fish. Well worth the dip in natures pound. Hopefully tomorrow we can hit the sea once again for another dip. Ken the last member of the Cabo adventure finally joined us yesterday evening. We had a great steak and shrimp on the barbi for dinner and a couple of parlor games.
Day IV: Got up around 0400 for the best time of the day again. And again as normal here a great sunrise while a cruise ship was heading into port Cabo for the day. There have usually been two new ships in the port everyday so far. It's now 0600 and Anita,Steve and I are the only one's up. Got to admire Steve. As usual he does not miss a day of work. Like me he seems to be able to accomplish a lot of getting his ducks in a row this time of day.
  Sort of hung around the complex this morning with the usual walking the nature path, breakfast and just plain hanging. We did go back to the beach for another peek at the fish and activity on the beach. The evening ended up with dinner at the Esparanza. It was an over the top experience with all the trimmings. It was all about upscale and presentation. Food was good, But I would have enjoyed a great burger much more, But it was an experience and this is a vacation. Vacation that sounds funny coming from a retired person who's life is a vacation.

DAY V: Just sitting here alone, Coffee, computer, and zero chaos waiting daybreak.  

Cruise Ships Arriving	Sunrise	Morning signs of life
Starting the day	Starting the day Tommy style	Whale watchers
Santa Maria Beach	Cactus	Getting Picked up at the beach

After watching the cruise ships coming into Cabo for the day followed by daybreak the rest of the troops started stiring. After Breakfast and some spectacular whale sightings Steve dropped Ron, Calley, Anita & I off at Santa Meria beach while he went out on a shopping safari. Santa Maria beach was what I had pictured in my mind as a real Mexican beach. Beautiful, Clean and a place one could really spend some quality time (if you had a umbrella).
We scored on some Mahi for dinner this evening from some of the other  guests in the complex this morning and should have a dinner to remember. Steve, Liz, Ken & Patty are out chasing the golf balls while the rest of us are just relaxing around the place at the moment.
Day VI: Everything normal 0540 Coffee, Puter & Quiet. Waiting for daybreak. This morning after breakfast some of us will  be headed up the Pacific coast to Todos Santos. Hopefully stopping by a beach or two on the 1hr. drive.

Todos Santos was good, Had lunch and checked out the area. Scored on some jumbo shrimp for dinner. Then stopped by a great beach on the Pacific ocean side. Long sandy beach with lots of surfers and young people.

Day VII: Today we are starting our journey home. Watched our last Cabo sun rise and enjoyed our last breakfast togeather. Steve, Ron, & Cally headed out for a snorkel while Anita and I packed our goodies to head north. After our goodbye's Steve drove us to Airporto de chaos. Now this airport adventure was one that I could do without it was an experience. Starting with going to the wrong terminal thanks to me. Then cetching a free $10. cab ride to the next terminal. Now that's where the chaos begins with check after check and a surprise $21. tax to get out of the country. A few lines later we were in the boarding area full of confused people trying to figure out what was next. I guarantee you I would rather eat bees than be there on a busy day space available or not. Now we are winging our way north in a friendly United seat. I now feel some what in control of the rest of the day.

02/14/2008

Last Cabo Sunrise	Morning Walk	Goodbye
Termnal Chaos	Climbing on uniTED to SFO	Last shot of Cabo